I was 11 or so and the First American Edition came out. My mom and I went to a little local bookstore and bought it. I read it for the first time, enjoyed it so much I did a writing project on it in Jr. High school.

Favorite Tolkien character:

Bilbo and Frodo. I love Bilbo's character, his journey and his love for the Shire and his home and comforts. He is an excellent problem solver, listener and his intuition is inspiring. I love Frodo as well for his fearless decision to take the Ring and destroy it without question. His quest, his faithfulness to Sam and his taking Bilbo with him at the end to the Gray Havens.